What is the role of DNA ligase in forming recombinant DNA?

DNA ligase forms phosphodiester bonds between the sugar and phosphate groups on the two strands of DNA.


This joins the sticky ends of the isolated DNA fragment to the sticky ends of the DNA in the plasmid vector.

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What are promoters in DNA, and why are they relevant to genetic engineering?

A promoter is a region where RNA polymerase binds to start transcription.


In genetic engineering, promoter regions need to be added to the isolated fragments of DNA so that RNA polymerase is able to bind to these fragments and transcribe a gene.

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What are terminators in DNA, and why are they relevant to genetic engineering?

A terminator region signals the end of transcription.


In genetic engineering, terminator regions need to be added to isolated fragments of DNA so RNA polymerase can be released and end transcription at the appropriate point.

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What is a commonly used vector in genetic engineering?

Plasmids or bacteriophages.

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Why is the same restriction enzyme used to extract a DNA fragment and on the DNA in the vector?

Using the same restriction enzyme ensures that the sticky ends are complementary so the isolated DNA fragment and the DNA of the vector can be joined together.

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What is transformation in genetic engineering?

Transformation involves introducing vectors with recombinant DNA into host cells, transforming these cells. 


Calcium ions and changes in temperature can make bacterial membranes more permeable to plasmids.

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How can you identify whether bacteria have been successfully genetically modified using marker genes?

  1. A marker gene that causes them to exhibit a specific trait, like antibiotic resistance, may be incorporated into the vector
  2. A marker gene that codes for a fluorescent protein that can be seen under UV light, like green fluorescent protein (GFP), may be incorporated into the vector
  3. A marker gene may be inserted within the GFP gene, preventing fluorescence if it is successfully incorporated
  4. A marker gene may be incorporated that codes for enzymes that cause a colour change to a particular substrate

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